American Anti-Imperialist League

The American Anti-Imperialist League was a group formed in 1898 that opposed the United States' expansion into overseas territories, such as the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Guam, after the Spanish-American War. Members believed imperialism conflicted with American ideals of self-determination and democracy, and they worried it would lead to military conflicts and undermine the nation’s principles. Prominent figures like Mark Twain and Andrew Carnegie supported its cause. The league aimed to fight against policies that expanded U.S. control beyond its borders, advocating for a more restrained and nation-focused foreign policy.